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THE Ministry of Health is re-evaluating the regulatory status of etomidate, a clinical sedative currently listed under the Poisons Act 1952, after reports of its misuse in vape products across the region, including Singapore’s controversial “Kpods”.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad confirmed that while etomidate is legally used in medical settings as a sedative and anaesthetic, concerns have emerged about its non-clinical application posing significant public health risks.
“We acknowledge the proposal, and it will be studied thoroughly,” Dr Dzulkefly said on Tuesday. “We do not make decisions purely based on deaths or isolated incidents, but through a stringent evidence-based evaluation process carried out by MaHTAS (the Malaysian Health Technology Assessment Section).”
He was speaking after launching the 2025 National Health Technology Assessment Conference (NHTAC) in Putrajaya, themed “Malaysian HTA at 30: Legacy of Evidence, A Commitment to Progress, A Vision for the Future”. The event marked three decades of evidence-based health policy formulation in Malaysia.
Dr Dzulkefly revealed that a dedicated task force, chaired by Public Health Director-General Dr Ismuni and public health expert Professor Datuk Dr Lokman Hakim, is currently assessing the broader implications of reclassifying etomidate under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
“This committee is examining the public health risks, legal ramifications, and the long-term impact of such substances on society,” he said. “The matter has also drawn the attention of the Cabinet, with the Prime Minister himself directing a careful review of the situation.”
While acknowledging the direction towards prohibition, Dr Dzulkefly stressed that any decision must be guided by clinical outcomes and comprehensive risk assessments.
“We are heading towards a ban, but it cannot be rushed. It must be based on clinical data and follow due regulatory process,” he stated.
At the same time, the Ministry will continue its public education and advocacy efforts on the risks of etomidate misuse, even as a judicial review request on related regulations is pending.
“We do not want any gap in public health education. Awareness programmes will proceed in phases to ensure understanding of the dangers posed by these substances,” he added.
The remarks came in response to Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii, who in Parliament urged the government to act decisively on etomidate’s misuse, calling it a potentially life-threatening substance if left unregulated. - July 30, 2025
